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Oral inhalation (OI) of nano-chemotherapeutics holds great potentials in the treatment of lung cancers as it enables direct targeting of drugs to lung tissues, spatial and temporal control of drug release, and decrease in drug-associated systemic and local lung toxicity. Therefore, the design of chemistry of the nanocarriers and their OI formulations for chemotherapeutics delivery to the peripheral lungs and extrapulmonary tissues of relevance such as lymph nodes, may thus afford new opportunities for treating such relevant diseases. In this work we investigated the effect of polyethylene glycol 1000Da (PEG1000) density and doxorubicin (DOX) payload on the interaction of poly(amidoamine) dendrimer (PAMAM) with an in vitro pulmonary epithelium model (Calu-3). DOX, which was conjugated to the PAMAM through a pH-labile bond, showed a strong time-dependent cell kill against Calu-3 cells due to sustained DOX release. The conjugation of DOX to PEGylated PAMAM dendrimers significantly enhances DOX transport across pulmonary epithelium compared to free drug, with the rate of transport increasing as PEGylation degree increases. Transient interaction of PEGylated dendrimers with cellular junctions of the polarized epithelium as probed by a reduction in transepithelial electrical resistance, faster mucus diffusion, along with reduced cellular internalization compared to the non-PEGylated counterpart promotes transport across the epithelial barrier. A cosolvent free method was developed to formulate PEGylated PAMAM-DOX conjugates in pressurized metered-dose inhalers. The resulting aerosol formulations show a very high final particle fractions (>82%). We further demonstrate that aerodynamic particle size distribution of the nanoconjugates can be tweaked with the addition of a biodegradable lactide-based copolymer, which may help tune lung deposition of PAMAM-DOX conjugates to a specific pulmonary area. The combined results suggest that conjugation to PAMAM dendrimers and their surface modification with PEG1000 can be utilized to modulate the transport of DOX across pulmonary epithelium, and also to easily formulate the conjugates in propellant-based inhalers for pulmonary administration of anticancer therapeutics.

Beer has been one of the most consumed alcoholic beverages worldwide. However, the incorporation of adjuncts in the beer can add new organoleptic and functional characteristics to the beverage. For this, Beauregard sweet potato shows high potential due to being a rich source of starch and many bioactive compounds. The aim of this study was to develop the best process condition to produce a Sweet potato beer with enhanced nutritional and antioxidant properties and good sensory characteristics. Beer samples showed increased antioxidant activity especially due to β-carotene and their total phenolic content. The phytochemical profile of sweet potato biocompounds demonstrated a direct effect of this adjunct on sensory and functional characteristics of the finished beer. In conclusion, it was found that Beauregard sweet potato is a promising adjunct for beer brewing with nutraceutical properties due to its rich composition of bioactive compounds.

The production and consumption of beer plays a significant role in the social, political, and economic activities of many societies. During brewing fermentation step, many volatile and phenolic compounds are produced. They bring several organoleptic characteristics to beer and also provide an identity for regional producers. In this review, the beer compounds synthesis, and their role in the chemical and sensory properties of craft beers, and potential health benefits are described. This review also describes the importance of fermentation for the brewing process, since alcohol and many volatile esters are produced and metabolized in this step, thus requiring strict control. Phenolic compounds are also present in beer and are important for human health since it was proved that many of them have antitumor and antioxidant activities, which provides valuable data for moderate dietary beer inclusion studies.

Propolis is a complex mixture of resinous and balsamic material collected from the exudates of plants, shoots, and leaves by bees. This study evaluated red propolis extracts obtained by conventional (ethanolic) extraction and ultrasound-assisted extraction of six samples from different regions of northeastern Brazil. The total phenolic compounds and flavonoids, in vitro antioxidant activity, concentration of formononetin and kaempferol and the cytotoxicity against four human tumor cell lines were determined for all twelve obtained extracts. Significant variations in the levels of the investigated compounds were identified in the red propolis extracts, confirming that the chemical composition varied according to the sampling region. The extraction method used also influenced the resulting propolis compounds. The highest concentration of the compounds of interest and the highest in vitro antioxidant activity were exhibited by the extracts obtained from samples from state of Alagoas. Formononetin and kaempferol were identified in all samples. The highest formononetin concentrations were identified in extracts obtained by ultrasound, thus indicating a greater selectivity for the extraction of this compound by this method. Regarding cytotoxic activity, for the HCT-116 line, all of the extracts showed an inhibition of greater than 90%, whereas for the HL-60 and PC3 lines, the minimum identified was 80%. In general, there was no significant difference (p>0.05) in the antiproliferative potential when comparing the extraction methods. The results showed that the composition of Brazilian red propolis varies significantly depending on the geographical origin and that the method used influences the resulting compounds that are present in propolis. However, regardless of the geographical origin and the extraction method used, all the red propolis samples studied presented great biological potential and high antioxidant activity. Furthermore, the ultrasound-assisted method can be efficiently applied to obtain extracts of red propolis more quickly and with high concentration of biomarkers of interest.

1. Department of Genetics, Ecology and Evolution (GEE), Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil. 2. Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, BA, Brazil. 3. Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Institute of Biological and Natural Sciences, Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro, Uberaba, MG, Brazil. 4. Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Hospital das Clinicas, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil. 5. Tiradentes University, Technology and Research Institute, Biomaterials Laboratory, Aracaju, Sergipe, Brazil. 6. Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden. 7. Department of Computer Science, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, 23284, USA. 8. Institute of Integrative Omics and Applied Biotechnology (IIOAB), Nonakuri, Purba Medinipur, West Bengal 721137, India. 9. Molecular and Computational Biology of Fungi Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil. 10. AQUACEN – National Reference Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Disease, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Supply, Veterinary School, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil. 11. Institute of Veterinary Medicine, University of Gottingen, Burckhardtweg 2, Gottingen, Germany. 12. Goncalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil.

Background Caseous Lymphadenitis (CLA) is a contagious, infectious, chronic disease caused by Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis , which affects mainly sheep and goats. The clinical prevalence of CLA in Brazil is 30%, resulting in decreased milk production, weight loss, and unusable meat and leather. Prophylaxis is based on vaccination; however, current vaccinations do not offer effective protection against the infection, which makes the development of a new vaccine essential to control this disease. Experimental approach Here, we developed a recombinant vaccine based on CP40 protein (rCP40) combined with an adjuvant (Freund's complete adjuvant or saponin) and evaluated its efficacy in a murine model of CLA. Female BALB/c mice were used in an immunization assay. Key results rCP40 induced high levels of IgG2a and IgG2b antibodies. After challenge with a virulent strain of C. pseudotuberculosis C57 (10 4 CFU/mL), the levels of IgG2a and IgG2b were sustained, indicating a Th1 response. The groups immunized with rCP40 protein (GES and GEF groups) showed 100% protection and was statistically significant in the GES and GEF groups ( p p Conclusions The results indicated the recombinant protein CP40 induced an specific immune response in mice that was able to afford protection after challenge, regardless the adjuvant used in the formulation.

The fine cocoa beans are a great international interest, for its particular characteristics of giving flavor to products. Then, the objective of this paper was to analyze the potential and technological developments, through patent applications in relation to cocoa. The survey was conducted from the combination of a keyword with the International Patent Code (IPC), the databases of the INPI patents and Espacenet . The most widely used CIP was the A23G1/00. It was observed a total of deposited documents between 1 and 4 per year, during the period 1912-2000. In 2001, was found a greater number of patent applications (9). The Great Britain stood out as the largest holder of patents relating to cocoa and cocoa products (40). It was noted that 98.39 % of patent documents in Espacenet were directed mainly to the food industry sector and only 1.61% were intended for the pharmaceutical industry . The Brazil didn't have many deposited patents documents, so, there is a need for greater incentives for research and development (R&D). DOI: 10.5935/1984-6835.20160078

Due to the characteristics of propolis, their extracts have been used in various products which has its technology developed and protected by patent documents. The aim of the study was to perform a technological forecasting of the application of propolis extracts in food products. The search was conducted in the online base of Espacenet and INPI. The results showed that Japan stands out as the largest holder of technology researched despite import almost the totality of propolis from Brazil. The Brazil despite being third in the world production of propolis, does not have a domain protection of this technology.

Making wines from tropical fruits with pleasant sensory characteristics has gradually gained potential as a new product within the beverages market. In this study, the ability to ferment cashew apple juice of non-Saccharomyces strains previously isolated from tropical fruits and Saccharomyces were evaluated, as well as their production of desirable volatile compounds. The isolates Torulaspora delbrueckii and Hanseniaspora opuntiae showed higher fermentative capacities in co-fermentations with Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The simple and co-fermentative process of the cashew must with these yeasts leads to a highly desirable production of volatile compounds such as phenethyl alcohol, 2-phenethyl acetate and 3-methyl-1-pentanol, and these favoured the organoleptic properties of the product. The concentrations of acetic acid during fermentation were in the range of 0.2–0.5 g/L, which is considered desirable to contribute towards the aromas and flavours of fruit wines. These results highlighted the role of yeast isolates from fruits on cashew juice fermentation and its production of desirable volatile compounds to produce cashew wine.

Diversas doencas veterinarias sao negligenciadas, tanto no diagnostico, tratamento e profilaxia. O uso da vacinacao e o melhor custo beneficio para controle de enfermidades, dentre as doencas veterinarias negligenciadas encontra-se a Linfadenite Caseosa (LC), a qual e infecto-contagiosa e acomete pequenos ruminantes Atualmente a profilaxia existente e ineficaz, o que torna o numero de animais contaminados expressivo, acarretando diversas perdas economicas para ovino caprinocultura. Esta prospeccao teve o objetivo foi entender o mercado de imunoprofilaxia com o uso de peptideos de maneira geral, assim como voltados para Linfadenite Caseosa . Para isso, foi utilizado os depositorios de patentes, WIPO e o INPI, assim como artigos cientificos. Os resultados mostraram que o uso de peptideos e amplo, e que o pais que esta em primeiro lugar entre os paises depositantes sobre o tema e o EUA. O Brasil carece na utilizacao de peptideos sinteticos, o que mostra ser uma linha de pesquisa em expansao e promissora, principalmente para a profilaxia .

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of the auxin 2,4-D (2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic) in calli formation from leaf and nodal segments of genipap and to characterize its growth curve. Explants obtained from shoots previously established from in vitro seedlings were used for calli induction. The experimental design was completely randomized in a 3x5x2 factorial with three accessions (NB, SA, SAL), five concentrations of 2,4-D (0.0; 2.0; 4.0, 6.0 or 8.0 mg L-1) and two times of measurement for calli fresh weight (30 and 60 days). There was callus formation in all treatments tested. It was observed that the best response for callus induction from leaf segments was with 2.0 mg L-1 of 2,4-D. For the nodal segment, the response among the accessions was different due to 2,4-D concentrations. The growth curve was plotted according to the fresh weight of callus obtained at intervals of 10 days up to 60 days. Through the established growth curve, the nodal-derived calli from accession SA should be transferred to a new medium, after 40 days of culture. O objetivo desse trabalho foi determinar o efeito da auxina 2,4-D (ácido diclorofenoxiacético) na calogênese de segmentos foliar e nodal de jenipapeiro e caracterizar sua curva de crescimento. Explantes obtidos debrotações pré-estabelecidas a partir de plântulas in vitro foram utilizados na indução de calos. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o inteiramente casualizado em esquema fatorial 3x5x2, com três acessos (NB, SA e SAL), cinco concentrações de 2,4-D (0,0; 2,0; 4,0; 6,0 ou 8,0 mg L-1) e dois tempos de avaliação (30 e 60 dias) da massa fresca de calos. Houve formação de calos em todos os tratamentos testados. Observou-se que a melhor resposta de indução ocorreu na concentração de 2,0 mg L-1 para calos oriundos de segmentos foliares. Para o segmento nodal a resposta entre os acessos foi diferenciada em função das concentrações de 2,4-D. A curva de crescimento foi plotada a partir da massa fresca dos calos obtida em intervalos de 10 dias até os 60 dias. Através da curva de crescimento estabelecida, os calos derivados de segmentos nodais do acesso SA devem ser transferidos para um novo meio de cultura, 40 dias após à inoculação.

Several strategies for the delivery and release of drugs have been studied, among them the use of polymeric nanoparticles of PLGA (poly lactic-co-glycolic acid). These nanoparticles (NPs) have been shown to be promising for the controlled and effective release of drugs due to their biodegradability and biocompatibility. Regarding this, the aim of this study is to synthesize and characterize PLGA polymer nanoparticles associated with antimicrobials in order to reduce adverse reactions and to have a more effective local delivery. Empty PLGA nanoparticles and conjugated to vancomycin and meropenem antibiotics were synthesized by the double emulsification-solvent evaporation technique. Then, they were characterized by the analysis of the mean particle diameter, dynamic light scattering (DLS), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) vibrational spectroscopy, contact angle measurement, and atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The DLS analysis of the NPs obtained showed approximate sizes of 263.5 nm (NPs-PLGA), 239.3 nm (NPs-VAN) and 284.2 nm (NPs-MER), and monodispersivity. FTIR results and contact angle measurements suggest encapsulation of antibiotics to NPs. The morphology evaluated through AFM and SEM indicates homogeneous, uniform, and spherical distribution of NPs and also apparently smooth. The antibacterial action of PLGA nanoparticles carried with antibiotics was effective when using concentrations of 5–2.5 mg/mL (PLGA-VAN) versus Staphylococcus aureus and 10–2.5 mg/mL (PLGA-MER) to Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The release kinetics of the antibiotics revealed a release profile of 43.9% at the end of 24 h and 96% at the end of 96 h for PLGA-VAN formulation and 8.25% and 16% at the end of 24 h and 96 h, for PLGA-MER, respectively. This study supports the potential application of PLGA particles containing antibiotics as facilitators of drug delivery and release effectively.

Azadirachta indica A. Juss (neem) extracts have been used in pharmaceutical applications as antitumor agents, due to their terpenes and phenolic compounds. To obtain extracts from neem leaves with potential antiproliferative effect, a sequential process of pressurized liquid extraction was carried out in a fixed bed extractor at 25 &deg, C and 100 bar, using hexane (SH), ethyl acetate (SEA), and ethanol (SE) as solvents. Extractions using only ethanol (EE) was also conducted to compare the characteristics of the fractionated extracts. The results obtained by liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization mass spectrometry suggested a higher concentration of terpenes in the SEA extract in comparison to SH, SE, and EE extracts. Therefore, antiproliferative activity showed that SEA extracts were the most efficient inhibitor to human tumor cells MCF-7, NCI-H460, HeLa, and HepG2. Hepatocellular cells were more resistant to SH, SEA, SE, and EE compared to breast, lung, hepatocellular, and cervical malignant cells. Neem fractioned extracts obtained in the present study seem to be more selective for malignant cells compared to the non-tumor cells.

Azadirachta indica A. Juss (neem) extracts have been used in pharmaceutical applications as antitumor agents, due to their terpenes and phenolic compounds. To obtain extracts from neem leaves with potential antiproliferative effect, a sequential process of pressurized liquid extraction was carried out in a fixed bed extractor at 25 ºC and 100 bar, using hexane (SH), ethyl acetate (SEA) and then ethanol (SE) as solvents. An extraction using only ethanol (EE) was also conducted to compare the characteristics of the fractionated extracts. The results obtained by liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization mass spectrometry suggested the highest concentration of terpenes for SEA extract in comparison to SH, SE and EE extracts. Therefore, antiproliferative activity showed SEA extracts were the most efficient inhibitors to human tumor cells MCF-7, NCI-H460, HeLa, and HepG2 between all other extracts studied. However, hepatocellular normal cells were more resistant to SH, SEA, SE, and EE compared to malignant cells of breast, lung, hepatocellular, and cervical. Neem fractioned extracts obtained in the present study seem to be more selective for malignant cells compared to the normal cells.

Triphenyltin (TPT) is an organotin compound (OT), primarily used in agriculture and in the composition of antifouling paints for ships worldwide. Studies have showed its effects as an endocrine disrupter in several organisms by preventing enzymatic expression and causing reproductive toxicity. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of exposure to TPT, via breastfeeding, on reproductive physiology in the Calomys laucha species. The experimental design was compound of five groups, two controls and three with different doses of TPT. Moreover, females were exposed by gavage to the TPT for 20 days, from the 1st day postpartum to the 21st postnatal day (PND). Then, the pups were euthanized and the kinetics, organelles, and biochemistry of the sperm were evaluated. The results presented a reduction in total motility in the groups exposed to TPT. Regarding cellular organelles analysis, a loss in membrane integrity was evidenced; the functionality of mitochondria showed diminution followed by increased acrosome reaction. In conclusion, the TPT causes alteration of the reproductive parameters, decreasing the activity and sperm quality in individuals exposed in the breastfeeding phase.

This study aimed to characterize the hydroethanolic extract of red propolis (HERP) and nanoparticles containing HERP for using as an additive in the culture medium of isolated ovine preantral follicles. HERP was characterized by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and determination of flavonoid content, and the nanoparticles by the mean particle diameter, polydispersity index (PI) and encapsulation efficiency (EE). The effect of HERP (10 and 20 ηg/ml-HERP10 and HERP20 groups) and nanoparticles (NP10 and NP20 groups) on isolated secondary follicles cultured in vitro for 12 days was observed by morphological evaluation, oxidative stress markers (reactive oxygen species-ROS and glutathione-GSH) and active mitochondria. HPLC showed formononetin as the major compound in the HERP (63.92 ± 0.21 μg/mL). The content of flavonoids ranged from 2.14% to 11.00%. The nanoparticles showed mean diameter of 287.5 ± 3.9 and 479 ± 18.1 ηm; PI of 0.117 ± 0.018 and 0.316 ± 0.039; and EE of 67.15% and 41%, respectively, for the NP10 and NP20 groups. After 12 days of culture, HERP20 and NP20 increased (p 0.05) the percentage of normal follicles compared to NP10. HERP20 showed significantly higher percentages of antrum formation than control medium (MEM) and NP10 (p 0.05). HERP20 also showed an increase (p 0.05) in mitochondrial activity compared to the other treatments, except NP20 (p 0.05), and increased GSH levels (p 0.05) compared to MEM and HERP10. In conclusion, use of HERP (20 ηg/ml) on in vitro culture of isolated ovine preantral follicles can increase antrum formation, mitochondrial activity and GSH levels.

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) has attracted attention as a photosensitizer in the field of photodynamic therapy (PDT) due to its low toxicity and high photostability. In the present work, nitrogen-doped TiO2 (N-TiO2) nanoparticles had their photokilling efficiency evaluated on a murine melanoma cell line (B16-F10) and fibroblasts (NIH 3T3). The N-TiO2 nanoparticles were prepared by a modified hydrogen peroxide sol-gel process using triethylamine as nitrogen precursor. XRD measurements showed that all TiO2 and N-TiO2 samples consisted of an anatase crystalline phase and no trace of rutile was detected. N-TiO2 nanoparticles showed higher absorbance in the visible region than pure TiO2. Nanoparticle dosage increase from 0.1 mg/ml to 0.5 mg/ml played a role in cell viability, causing high cytotoxicity in melanoma and fibroblast cells. The cytotoxic potential of N-TiO2 on cells was analyzed using visible light, UV-A irradiation and dark conditions. All samples were cytotoxic in a PDT test, and N-TiO2 caused 93% death in melanoma cells under UV irradiation treatment at 0.5 mg/ml. Gene expression analysis of this sample showed, under ultraviolet photoexcitation, an increase of pro-apoptotic BAX gene expression, suggesting cell death by apoptosis.

Most studies of Brazilian red propolis have explored the composition and biological properties of its ethanolic extracts. In this work, we chemically extracted and characterized the essential oil of Brazilian red propolis (EOP) and assessed its adjuvant, antiparasitic and cytotoxic activities. The chemical composition of EOP was analyzed using gas chromatography with mass spectrometry (GC-MS). EOP was tested for in vitro activity against Trichomonas vaginalis (ATCC 30236 isolate); trophozoites were treated with different concentrations of EOP (ranging from 25 to 500 μg/mL) in order to establish the MIC and IC50 values. A cytotoxicity assay was performed in CHO-K1 cells submitted to different EOP concentrations. BALB/c mice were used to test the adjuvant effect of EOP. The animals were divided in 3 groups and inoculated as follows: 0.4 ng/kg BW EOP (G1); 50 μg of rCP40 protein (G2); or a combination of 0.4 ng/kg BW EOP and 50 μg of rCP40 (G3). Total IgG, IgG1 and IgG2a levels were assessed by ELISA. The major constituent compounds of EOP were methyl eugenol (13.1%), (E)-β-farnesene (2.50%), and δ-amorphene (2.3%). Exposure to EOP inhibited the growth of T. vaginalis, with an IC50 value of 100 μg/mL of EOP. An EOP concentration of 500 μg/mL was able to kill 100% of the T. vaginalis trophozoites. The EOP kinetic growth curve showed a 36% decrease in trophozoite growth after a 12 h exposure to 500 μg/mL of EOP, while complete parasite death was induced at 24 h. With regard to CHO-K1 cells, the CC50 was 266 μg/mL, and 92% cytotoxicity was observed after exposure to 500 μg/mL of EOP. Otherwise, a concentration of 200 μg/mL of EOP was able to reduce parasite proliferation by 70% and was not cytotoxic to CHO-K1 cells. As an adjuvant, a synergistic effect was observed when EOP was combined with the rCP40 protein (G3) in comparison to the administration of each component alone (G1 and G2), resulting in higher concentrations of IgG, IgG1 and IgG2a. EOP is constituted by biologically active components with promising antiparasitic and immunostimulatory activities and can be investigated for the formulation of new vaccines or trichomonacidal drugs.

Peripheral axon injury and degeneration are often mediated by oxidative stress and inflammation. The hydroalcoholic extract of the red propolis (HERP) has attracted great attention because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.The objective of this work is to study the effect of HERP on nerve repair and functional recovery after sciatic nerve injury (SNI) in rats.The chemical markers in HERP were identified using high-resolution mass spectroscopy. After axonotmesis of sciatic nerve, ibuprofen (IBP) and HERP treatments were orally administered for 28 d. Behavioural tests were performed weekly after SNI. The myelinated axon number was counted using morphometric analysis.The compounds found in HERP were pinocembrin, formononetin, vestitol, and biochanin A. The animals that underwent SNI showed a significant decrease in motor function based on the Basso, Beattie and Bresnahan scale and sciatic functional index compared with sham animals until 7 d after the surgery (p 0.05). After 14 and 21 d, the SNI groups treated with either HERP or IBP showed significant improvement (p 0.01), and the SNI group treated with HERP 10 mg/kg showed accelerated motor recovery compared with the other groups (p 0.01). SNI caused also a reduction in the myelinated axon counts, and treatment with HERP 10 mg/kg induced a significant increase in the number of myelinated fibres compared with all other groups.HERP promoted regenerative responses and accelerated functional recovery after sciatic nerve crush. Thus, it can be considered to be a new strategy or complementary therapy for treating nerve injuries.

The use of expanded bed adsorption with three different adsorbents Streamline (SP XL, DEAE and PHENYL) to purify the chitosanase from Metarhizium anisopliae strain with and without clarification using Doehlert design for the optimization of the experiments has been investigated. Chitosanases are enzymes that hydrolyze chitosan, a carbohydrate, resulting oligosaccharides that have many biological remarkable activities, such as anti-cancer, anti-HIV and anti-oxidants activities. The superficial velocity was evaluated in five levels, from 40 to 260 cm h−1, while the type of adsorbent, a qualitative variable, was assessed at three levels, saving materials and time according to the Doehlert design. The results showed that it is possible to purify chitosanase from M. anisopliae by expanded bed adsorption. Chitosanase purification factor ranged from 2 to 3.1-fold and yield ranged from 27.7 to 45.3%. The highest enzyme activity in the elution was 0.06 U/mL values which were higher than or close to those reported. The molecular mass of chitosanase was about 45 kDa using SDS-PAGE.

The aim of this study was to analyze the physicochemical properties and antifungal activities of the red propolis samples from Sergipe, Brazil, and also evaluate their variability throughout the year. The characterization of the hydroalcoholic extract (HPE) of the red propolis samples was performed monthly from October 2009 to September 2010. The concentrations of the bioactive compounds varied during the year, but their chromatographic profiles were similar. Four compounds were identified by comparison with authentic standards. Formononetin was one of the predominant compounds in all propolis extracts. In our study, it was observed that all the propolis samples inhibited the growth of Candida species. Multivariate analysis confirmed the variations in chemical composition and color of the HPEs throughout the year. The biological activities of the HPEs were statistically significant (p

O trabalho teve como objetivo desenvolver e caracterizar embalagens ativas flexíveis formuladas pela incorporação de polpas de frutas tropicais a uma matriz polimérica de amido de mandioca plastificada com glicerol, avaliando as propriedades mecânicas, de barreira e a eficácia antioxidante destas embalagens durante o armazenamento. As embalagens foram produzidas por casting, com concentrações fixas de amido de mandioca (4,5%) e glicerol (1,0%), e concentrações de polpa de manga, acerola e seriguela entre 5 e 20%. Foram caracterizadas as propriedades de barreira (espessura, umidade, sólidos totais, atividade de água e solubilidade) e propriedades mecânicas dos filmes. A ação antioxidante dos aditivos incorporados foi avaliada através do armazenamento do azeite de dendê embalado com os filmes contendo os aditivos naturais, monitorando a sua oxidação por 40 dias, sob condições de oxidação acelerada (63%UR/30°C). A adição das polpas de frutas aos filmes promoveu um aumento da resistência mecânica. Os filmes com as polpas incorporadas desempenharam efeito antioxidante sobre o azeite de dendê durante os 40 dias de armazenamento, podendo ser aplicados para o controle da oxidação deste produto. This research aimed to develop and characterize flexible active packages formulated by the incorporation of pulps from tropical fruits to a polymeric matrix of manioc starch, plasticized with glycerol. The mechanical properties, the barriers and the antioxidant efficacy of these packages were evaluated during storing. The packages were produced by casting, with fixed concentrations of manioc starch (4.5%) and glycerol (1.0%), and variable concentrations of mango, acerola and seriguela pulps between 5 and 20%. The barrier properties (width, humidity, total solids, water activity and solubility) and the mechanical properties of the films were evaluated. The antioxidant action of the additives incorporated was evaluated through the storage of palm oil packed with the films containing the natural additives. Its oxidation was monitored for 40 days, under conditions of accelerated oxidation (63%UR/30ºC). The addition of fruit pulps to the films promoted an increase of the mechanical resistance. The films with the added pulps performed an antioxidant effect on the palm oil during the 40 days storage, which could be applied for the oxidation control of this product.

Continuous increases in the rates of tumor diseases have highlighted the need for identification of novel and inexpensive antitumor agents from natural sources. In this study, we investigated the effects of enriched fraction from hydroalcoholic Brazilian red propolis extract against Hep-2 cancer cell line. Initially 201 fractions were arranged in 12 groups according to their chromatographic characteristics (A-L). After an in vitro cell viability screening, J and L were further selected as promising enriched fractions for this study. The chemical characterization was performed and Biochanin A, Formononetin, and Liquiritigenin compounds were quantified. Through MTT viability assay and morphological changes observed by Giemsa and DAPI staining, the results showed that red propolis inhibited cancer cells growth. Flow cytometry results indicated effects that were partly mediated through programmed cell death as confirmed by externalization of phosphatidylserine, DNA cleaved assay, increase at SUB G1-G0 phase in cell cycle analysis and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that red propolis enriched fractions promoted apoptotic effects in human cancer cells through the mechanisms involving mitochondrial perturbation. Therefore, red propolis fractions contain candidate agents for adjuvant cancer treatment, which further studies should elucidate the comprehensive mechanistic pathways.

Peptide-based vaccines have emerged in recent years as promising candidates in the prevention of infectious diseases. However, there are many challenges to maintaining in vivo peptide stability and enhancement of peptide immunogenicity to generate protective immunity which enhances clearance of infections. Here, a dendrimer-based carrier system is proposed for peptide-based vaccine delivery, and shows its anti-microbial feasibility in a mouse model of Chlamydia trachomatis. Chlamydiae are the most prevalent sexually transmitted bacteria worldwide, and also the causal agent of trachoma, the leading cause of preventable infectious blindness. In spite of the prevalence of this infectious agent and the many previous vaccine-related studies, there is no vaccine commercially available. The carrier system proposed consists of generation 4, hydroxyl-terminated, polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimers (G4OH), to which a peptide mimic of a chlamydial glycolipid antigen-Peptide 4 (Pep4, AFPQFRSATLLL) was conjugated through an ester bond. The ester bond between G4OH and Pep4 is expected to break down mainly in the intracellular environment for antigen presentation. Pep4 conjugated to dendrimer induced Chlamydia-specific serum antibodies after subcutaneous immunizations. Further, this new vaccine formulation significantly protected immunized animals from vaginal challenge with infectious Chlamydia trachomatis, and it reduced infectious loads and tissue (genital tract) damage. Pep4 conjugated to G4OH or only mixed with peptide provided enhanced protection compared to Pep4 and adjuvant (i.e. alum), suggesting a potential adjuvant effect of the PAMAM dendrimer. Combined, these results demonstrate that hydroxyl-terminated PAMAM dendrimer is a promising polymeric nanocarrier platform for the delivery of peptide vaccines and this approach has potential to be expanded to other infectious intracellular bacteria and viruses of public health significance.

Caseous Lymphadenitis (CLA) is a chronic infectious disease characterized by purulent lesions and formation of abscesses, which mainly affects sheep and goat herds. The great challenge for the treatment of this disease is the low efficacy of antibiotic therapy, due to the capacity of the bacteria to be located inside granulomatous structures, decreasing the drug efficiency and consequently its action on the microorganisms. The economic impact triggered by this infection has generated several scientific studies of great relevance, which pointed out as the main aspect, the search for a prophylactic method for the whole herd. Thus, several vaccine formulations, routes of administration and adjuvants were tested and compared over the years by several research groups, in search of efficiency, low cost and reproducibility. In this way, this review presented the main aspects involved in the prophylactic methods developed against CLA, comparing studies and trials that provide the scientific scenario with a broad discussion of the target investment factors that may direct a quality product for the treatment of infection.

Diante do aumento no interesse do mel pelas indústrias de alimentos e farmacêutica, decorrente principalmente das suas propriedades funcionais e medicinais, bem como de suas novas possibilidades de aplicação, o objetivo deste estudo foi realizar um monitoramento tecnológico para avaliar o panorama nacional da proteção de processos e produtos relacionados a esta matéria-prima. A pesquisa foi realizada na base de dados on line do Instituto Nacional de Propriedade Industrial (INPI), visto que abrange todas as patentes depositadas e publicadas no Brasil. Foram selecionados 142 documentos para compor o escopo dos resultados, considerados relevantes para a pesquisa. A partir do mapeamento tecnológico realizado neste estudo, percebe-se que essa matriz está sendo utilizada para o desenvolvimento de produtos e processos em diferentes áreas tecnológicas e que o Brasil ainda é um país de pouco interesse para a proteção da tecnologia na área pesquisada, evidenciado através do pequeno número de patentes de não residentes.

Propolis is known for a long time for its health benefits and biological activities. Here, the red variety from the northeast of Brazil was chemically analyzed and extracts were investigated regarding their antioxidant and antitumor activity. Hydroalcoholic extracts, obtained from the red propolis, revealed polyphenol content, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl scavenging potential and enzymatic activities for catalase-like and superoxide dismutase-like. Cytotoxic activity was evaluated for human laryngeal epidermoid carcinoma cell (Hep-2), human cervical adenocarcinoma (HeLa) and human normal epithelial embryonic kidney (Hek-293). Survival analysis for non-tumor cell line showed greater IC50 compared to tumor cell lines, suggesting an increased sensitivity that may correlate with the higher proliferative index of the tumor vs. normal cells. Our results indicate that the Brazilian red propolis is capable of inhibiting cancer cell growth and constitutes an excellent source of antioxidant and antitumor natural agent.

The objective of this work was to study the reduction in the capsaicin toxicity by encapsulation in liposomes. Capsaicin was extracted from peppers and characterized with high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). We determined the zeta potential, polydispersivity index (PdI) and vesicle size of liposomes. Wistar rats were submitted to intravesical instillation of liposomes (LIP), capsaicin (CAP) or liposomes with capsaicin (CAPLIP). After 24 hours, bladders were removed for histological analysis. Vesicle size ranged from 68 to 105 nm with PdI smaller than 0.2 and zeta potential around -30 mV. The vesicles maintained stability over the 14-day study. The histological analysis of the CAP group showed intense inflammation in almost all bladder layers, as well as ulcer formation. Conversely, the CAPLIP group showed a smooth inflammatory reaction and hyperemia. In conclusion, the liposomes effectively protected the bladder against the irritative action of capsaicin.

Bacterial resistance is an emerging public health issue that is disseminated worldwide. Silver nanocomposite can be an alternative strategy to avoid Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria growth, including multidrug-resistant strains. In the present study a silver nanocomposite was synthesized, using a new green chemistry process, by the addition of silver nitrate (1.10−3 mol·L−1) into a fermentative medium of Xanthomonas spp. to produce a xanthan gum polymer. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to evaluate the shape and size of the silver nanoparticles obtained. The silver ions in the nanocomposite were quantified by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). The antibacterial activity of the nanomaterial against Escherichia coli (ATCC 22652), Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC 29282), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27853) and Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923) was carried out using 500 mg of silver nanocomposite. Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii multidrug-resistant strains, isolated from hospitalized patients were also included in the study. The biosynthesized silver nanocomposite showed spherical nanoparticles with sizes smaller than 10 nm; 1 g of nanocomposite contained 49.24 µg of silver. Multidrug-resistant strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii, and the other Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria tested, were sensitive to the silver nanocomposite (10–12.9 mm of inhibition zone). The biosynthesized silver nanocomposite seems to be a promising antibacterial agent for different applications, namely biomedical devices or topical wound coatings.

A própolis é um produto natural elaborado a partir de secreções de árvores, flores, folhas e pólen, recebendo ainda a adição de substâncias secretadas pelo metabolismo glandular das abelhas. Devido à importância farmacológica, terapêutica, científica e econômica deste produto, o objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar as potencialidades, características e evolução das competências tecnológicas, traduzidas através de dados estatísticos de patentes depositados no Brasil, no que diz respeito aos processos de extração e obtenção de compostos ativos da própolis, bem como suas aplicações industriais a partir da elaboração de novos produtos. O termo documento de patente abrange pedidos de patente publicados ou patentes concedidas. A pesquisa foi realizada a partir de palavras-chave do tema na base de dados do Instituto Nacional de Propriedade Industrial. O primeiro documento de patente identificado foi de 1992, tendo como o país de origem o Japão. Do universo de patentes depositadas 94% são de residentes e 6% de não residentes. Em relação à tecnologia protegida os inventores independentes são os maiores depositantes, seguida das empresas e universidades. Apesar de o Brasil ser um dos maiores exportadores mundiais da própolis, este não é considerado como um mercado atraente e competitivo para a proteção desta tecnologia por outros países.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the physical–chemical properties of starch (SF), mangaba (MF), and mangaba/starch-based films (MSF), using differential thermal analysis, thermogravimetry/derivative thermogravimetry, infrared spectroscopy, mechanical profile, and scanning electron microscopy. The films were prepared by casting process using sucrose and propyleneglycol as plasticizers. The thermal profiles of MF and MSF were similar and showed increased thermal stability. The mechanical properties of MF and MSF presented decreases of tensile strength and elastic modulus when compared with SF. The MSF showed the best thermal and mechanical characteristics.

The future supplies and usage of glycerol are expected to increase as biodiesel plants increase production, and the output will greatly outpace demand. Biodiesel production has already had a significant impact on the price of refined glycerol. A major concern of glycerol producers is the reduced price of glycerol resulting from the increased production of biodiesel. Some alternative uses for this glycerol that have been investigated are substrates for fermentation process or the production of biosurfactants, fatty acids, biopolymers, and others products. This work had as objective to evaluate two strains of Xanthomonas sp isolate from Brazil for xanthan gum in orbital agitator, analizing the apparent viscosity of aqueous solutions and selecting viscosity. The experiments of xanthan gum production were realized in orbital agitator with 120 rpm agitation, for cells production, and 180rpm, for biopolymer production, under a 28 °C temperature. The rheology of the fermentation broth was analyzed by apparent viscosity and the polymer was recovered with ethanol ( 1 : 3 , v/v). After its recovery, the productivity evaluation was performed. The productivity were 0 . 157 and 0.363 gL -1 for C1 and 0.186 and 0.363 gL -1 for C 9 to media glycerol or glycerol and sucrose, respectively. The viscosity analysis was performed for aqueous solutions 3 %, at 25 °C, the best apparent viscosity was obtained using gum synthesized with glycerol and sucrose ( 50 : 5 0) at 25 °C, 143 mPa.s -1 from Xanthomonas sp C1.

The use of casein, starch and bee pollen as biodegradable materials has been promise. The objective of this work was the development and characterization of films containing casein, pollen and starch. The films were obtained by casting process and the solvent evaporation was performed at 40 °C/24h. The films characterization was carried out by microscopy, thermal analysis, opacity test, mechanical properties and barrier methods. The starch films presented heterogeneous on microscopy analysis. The thermal behaviors of pollen films were similar. The formulation containing only pollen 3 % was unable to form film. The introduction of pollen in starch film formulation improved the mechanical characteristic and thermal stability of films.

The use of biodegradable natural polymers has increased due to the over-solid packaging waste. In this study, a chemical modification of the casein molecule was performed by Maillard reaction, and the modified polymer was evaluated by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE), thermogravimetry/derivative thermogravimetry (TG/DTG), FT-IR, and 1H-NMR spectroscopy. Subsequently, films based on the modified casein were obtained and characterized by mechanical analysis, water vapor transmission, and erosion behavior. The PAGE results suggested an increase of molecular mass of the modified polymer, and FT-IR spectroscopy data indicated inclusion of C–OH groups into this molecule. The TG/DTG curves of modified casein presented a different thermal decomposition profile compared to the individual compounds. Mechanical tests showed that the chemical modification of the casein molecules provided higher elongation rates (45.5%) to the films, suggesting higher plasticity, than the original molecules (13.4%). The modified casein films presented higher permeability (0.505 ± 0.006 μg/h mm3) than the original polymer (0.387 ± 0.006 μg/h mm3) films at 90% relative humidity (RH). In pH 1.2, modified casein films presented higher erosion rates (32.690 ± 0.692%) than casein films (19.910 ± 2.083%) after 8 h, suggesting an increased sensibility for erosion of the modified casein films in acid environment. In water (pH 7.0), the films erosion profiles were similar. Those findings indicate that the modification of molecule by Maillard reaction provided films more plastic, hydrophilic, and sensitive to erosion in acid environment, suggesting that a new polymer with changed properties was founded.

Mangaba tree (Hancornia speciosa Gomes) is a tropical fruit species from Brazil and presents socioeconomic potential. The objective of this study was to determine antioxidant activity, rutin content and genetic similarity among in vivo and in vitro matrices and progenies of six accessions from the Mangaba Active Germplasm Bank of the Embrapa Coastal Tablelands, SE, Brazil. Young leaves of adult matrix plants and in vitro callus methanolic extracts obtained from young leaves resulted in differences between the accessions for the rutin content and high antioxidant activity. The Costa Azul accession, from Bahia, Brazil outstood with values above 3,000 g of dry extract/g of DPPH (2.2-diphenyl-1-picrilhydrazyl) in in vitro callus coming from nodal and internodal segments (3,023.73 and 3,136.80 g of dry extract/g of DPPH, respectively). Rutin was not found in extracts resulting from in vitro callus of mangaba tree. The difference among the values obtained for DPPH analysis are superior when compared with in vivo leaf extract, with the in vitro Costa Azul accession (nodal and internodal) outstanding, concluding that in vitro callus induction can interfere with chemical compounds of the plant. The markers detect genetic similarity under in vitro cultivation conditions. The Costa Azul accession group itself in isolation from others and EC50 concentrations differentiated between leaf and callus are obtained. O EC50 is superior in extracts deriving from in vitro callus, with the in vitro Costa Azul accession (nodal and internodal).

Caseous lymphadenitis (CLA) is a disease caused by Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis bacteria that affects sheep and goats. The absence of a serologic diagnose is a factor that contributes for the disease dissemination, and due to the formation of granuloma, the treatment is very expensive. Therefore, prophylaxis is the approach with best cost-benefit relation; however, it still lacks an effective vaccine. In this sense, this work seeks to apply bioinformatic tools to design an effective vaccine against CLA, using CP40 protein as standard for the design of immunodominant epitopes, from which a total of 6 sequences were obtained, varying from 10 to 16 amino acid residues. The evaluation of different properties of the vaccines showed that the vaccine is a potent and nonallergenic antigen remaining stable in a wide range of temperatures. The initial tertiary structure of the vaccine was then predicted and a model selected. Later, the process of CP40 protein and TLR2 receptor binding was performed, presenting interaction with this receptor, which plays an important role in the activation of the immune response.

BACKGROUND: This aim of this study was the production and rheological characterisation of xanthan gum by Xanthomonas campestris pv. mangiferaeindicae IBSBF 1230 using industrial media and experimental design techniques in a bench bioreactor. RESULTS: The optimised conditions for the production of xanthan starting with 900 mL of cheese whey were 1 g L−1 magnesium sulphate, 20 g L−1 potassium phosphate, 28 °C temperature and initial pH 7.2 at 390 rpm agitation and 1.5 vvm aeration, resulting in 36 g L−1 gum in 72 h. The highest viscosity obtained in the production optimisation study was 1831.34 mPa s at 25 °C with 30 g L−1 gum. The use of CaCl2 resulted in the highest solution viscosity under conditions of 25 °C, 1 g L−1 salt and 46.8 g L−1 gum, with a value of 1704.53 mPa s. CONCLUSION: In this study, cheese whey, a by-product of the dairy industry, was used as substrate in the production of xanthan gum, a valuable product in food applications, with optimised high gum production in a bioreactor and a wide range of viscosity values. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry

The proposal of the present study was to select and carry out the molecular characterization of strains of Xanthomonas sp. in order to correlate with gum production and determine possible genetic alterations during the study. The gums produced were also evaluated rheologically. Ten strains of Xanthomonas were used in the screening and the best ones in terms of productivity were Xanthomonas campestris pv. mangiferaeindicae 1230 (8.93 g/L), X. campestris pv. campestris 254 (9.49 g/L) and X. campestris pv. campestris 1078 (9.67 g/L). The gum produced by X. campestris pv. mangiferaeindicae presented the best apparent viscosity. The results for the profiles of the bands produced by RAPD showed considerable genetic variability amongst the evaluated strains, making not possible to neither group the strains according to pathovar or species, nor correlate the band profile with the productivity obtained. According to the RAPD analysis, no detectable mutations occurred in these bacteria during the study.

The cheese whey is an abundant residue obtained during the cheese processing and its disposal in the environment causes several drawbacks. The bioconversion of this by-product in added-value products is an important alternative to overcome this environmental problem. In this work, the feasibility of using cheese whey as carbon source for xanthan gum production was investigated using two strains of Xanthomonas campestris. The cheese whey:sucrose ratio and the supplementation of the medium were investigated by a Central Composite Design (CCD) in order to improve the xanthan gum production. Maximum xanthan gum productions were observed after 72 h using cheese whey as sole carbon source, 0.1% (w/v) MgSO 4 × 7H 2 O and 2.0% (w/v) of K 2 HPO 4 , yielding approximately 25 g L −1 . This value is quite higher than some results presented in the literature using glucose as substrate. Although the production was similar for the two strains, chemical composition and ionic strength presented several differences in chemical characteristics between the polysaccharides produced.

Objetivou-se obter neste trabalho um corante natural (antocianina), na forma de pó a partir do bagaço de uva da cultivar "Isabel" (Vitis labrusca), onde foram realizados estudos de extração e encapsulamento. Empregou-se o método de extração por imersão mediante técnica de planejamento experimental, onde as variáveis avaliadas foram pH da solução de extração (1-2), volume de etanol (100-250 mL), tempo de extração (3-7 h) e temperatura de extração (15-35ºC). A concentração máxima de antocianinas totais obtidas foi de 300 mg/100 g de bagaço de uva (umidade 5%) nos níveis inferiores de pH (1,0) e tempo (3 horas) e superiores de temperatura (35ºC) e volume de etanol (250 mL). Os extratos foram secos por atomização. A melhor condição para o encapsulamento e a secagem foi quando utilizaram-se proporções iguais de maltodextrina e goma arábica. This work had the aim of obtaining a natural pigment (anthocyanin) at powder form from 'Isabel' grape bagasse (Vitis labrusca), studying the extraction and encapsulating steps one applied the method of extraction by immersion by experimental design technique, when the factors investigated were pH of the extraction solution (1-2), volume of ethanol (100-250 mL), extraction time (3-7 h) and extraction temperature (15-35 °C). The maximum concentration of total anthocyanin was 300 mg/100g of grape bagasse (5% moisture) at the lower levels of pH (1.0) and time (3 h), and at upper levels of temperature (35ºC) and amount of ethanol (250 mL). The extracts were dried by a spray process. The best condition for encapsulating and drying was obtained when equal amounts of maltodextrin and Arabic gum were used.

Com este trabalho, avaliou-se a produção de biopolímero sintetizado por Sphingomonas capsulata ATCC 14666, utilizando-se os meios industriais melaço bruto e pré-tratado e resíduo de proteína texturizada de soja (PTS). Foram testadas diferentes concentrações de meios industriais (2,66, 4, 6 e 8%), cujas condições de fermentação utilizadas foram 28º ± 2ºC, 208 rpm, 72 h. Os ensaios foram realizados em triplicata e os resultados foram avaliados estatisticamente mediante o teste de Tukey. As melhores produtividades foram obtidas para melaço pré-tratado 8% (0,290 gL-1h-1), seguida de extrato aquoso de resíduo de PTS 6% (0,240 gL-1h-1) e melaço bruto 8% (0,190 gL-1h-1). A qualidade reológica das gomas foi demonstrada através da leitura de viscosidade aparente de soluções aquosas e salinas a 25 e 60ºC.

Propolis is known for its biological properties and its preparations have been continuously investigated in an attempt to solve the problem of their standardization, an issue that limits the use of propolis in food and pharmaceutical industries. The aim of this study was to evaluate in vitro antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiparasitic, and cytotoxic effects of extracts of red, green, and brown propolis from different regions of Brazil, obtained by ethanolic and supercritical extraction methods. We found that propolis extracts obtained by both these methods showed concentration-dependent antioxidant activity. The extracts obtained by ethanolic extraction showed higher antioxidant activity than that shown by the extracts obtained by supercritical extraction. Ethanolic extracts of red propolis exhibited up to 98% of the maximum antioxidant activity at the highest extract concentration. Red propolis extracts obtained by ethanolic and supercritical methods showed the highest levels of antimicrobial activity against several bacteria. Most extracts demonstrated antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. None of the extracts analyzed showed activity against Escherichia coli or Candida albicans. An inhibitory effect of all tested ethanolic extracts on the growth of Trypanosoma cruzi Y strain epimastigotes was observed in the first 24 h. However, after 96 h, a persistent inhibitory effect was detected only for red propolis samples. Only ethanolic extracts of red propolis samples R01Et.B2 and R02Et.B2 showed a cytotoxic effect against all four cancer cell lines tested (HL-60, HCT-116, OVCAR-8, and SF-295), indicating that red propolis extracts have great cytotoxic potential. The biological effects of ethanolic extracts of red propolis revealed in the present study suggest that red propolis can be a potential alternative therapeutic treatment against Chagas disease and some types of cancer, although high activity of red propolis in vitro needs to be confirmed by future in vivo investigations.

Background Caseous lymphadenitis (CLA) is an infectious disease that affects small ruminants and is caused by Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis. This disease is responsible for high economic losses due to condemnation and trim of infected carcasses, decreased leather and wool yield, loss of sales of breeding stock and deaths from internal involvement. Treatment is costly and ineffective; the most cost-effective strategy is timely immunisation. Various vaccine strategies have been tested, and recombinant vaccines are a promising alternative. Thus, in this study, different vaccine formulations using a recombinant protein (rCP40) and the CP09 live recombinant strain were evaluated. Five groups of 10 mice each were immunised with saline (G1), rCP40 (G2), CP09 (G3), a combination of CP09 and rCP40 (G4) and a heterologous prime-boost strategy (G5). Mice received two immunisations within 15 days. On day 30 after primary immunisation, all groups were challenged with a C. pseudotuberculosis virulent strain. Mice were monitored and mortality was recorded for 30 days after challenge. Results The G2, G4 and G5 groups showed high levels of IgG1 and IgG2a; G2 presented significant IgG2a production after virulent challenge in the absence of IgG1 and IgG3 induction. Thirty days after challenge, the mice survival rates were 20 (G1), 90 (G2), 50 (G3), 70 (G4) and 60% (G5). Conclusions rCP40 is a promising target in the development of vaccines against caseous lymphadenitis.

Evaluation of in vitro biological potential of plant species Sebastiania corniculata (Euphorbiaceae) Isabelle Souza de Melo Silva, Raissa Fernanda Evangelista Pires dos Santos , Andriele Mendonca Barbosa , Klebson Silva Santos , Mariene Ribeiro Amorim , Flavia Manuella Ribeiro de Mendonca , Ingridy Viana Lucena , Thiane de Vasconcellos Costa Melo , Genilson Sarmento Lins Junior , Patricia de Albuquerque Sarmento , Francine Ferreira Padilha , Maria Lysete de Assis Bastos 2

Background The treatment of bacterial diseases has become an increase public health problem, since the conventional antimicrobial substances lose their effectiveness due to the microbial resistance phenomenon [1]. Silver is a metal with potential antibacterial activity, and showed significant efficacy against several species of bacteria. The silver activity to prevent microbial growth is enhanced when the metal is found as nanoparticles [2]. Silver nanoparticles (NPAG) have their bacteriostatic and bactericidal activity based on their ability to kill or inhibit growth of bacteria. Pathogenic microorganisms, both gram positive and negative were sensitive to NPAG. The NPAG may be employed in conjunction with the biopolymers forming a nanocomposite that emerge as a promising therapeutic alternative. The xanthan gum is a biopolymer with interesting properties for food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries, acting as gelling and stabilizing [3]. The present study in focused on the evaluation of silver nanocomposite activity against gram positive and gram negative bacteria. The disk diffusion well technique was used to assess the efficiency of the silver nanocomposites against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The results indicated that the developed product has a broad spectrum of activity against the tested bacteria.

Background The skin is the largest organ of the human body and corresponds to the first line of defense against external aggression. The extent and the commitment of organ and tissue will depend on the severity and intensity of trauma. The regeneration and healing are two processes that compose the restoration of tissues. It is a complex process involving a number of cellular and molecular events, as well as biochemical and physiological phenomena. The process of healing by secondary intention occurs in tissue repair in wounds with a higher degree of injury (injuries that may involve the subcutaneous tissue, muscle or bone). A range of biomaterials have been used in an attempt to incorporate substances that facilitate the process of tissue repair, especially the collagen to be biocompatible and not immunogenic. Essential fatty acids (EFAs) has been used in various types of injuries and different stages of the healing process. Therefore, this study aims to develop, characterize and physically evaluate the effect of collagen films containing EFAs on wound healing of second intention. The cicatricial part has already generated paper in Acta Cirurgica Brasileira, vol.28 no.5 Sao Paulo May 2013 (http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S0102-86502013000500005).